The Manhattan District Attorney's office returned eight trafficked artefacts to Peruvian authorities, primarily sourced from the looted North Coast region, rich in Moche civilization relics. Among the artefacts is a ChavÃn ceramic effigy bottle and a gilded copper mask believed to depict the god Aiapæc. The return reflects a commitment to repatriate cultural heritage and counteract international looting networks. During the ceremony, DA Alvin Bragg emphasized the importance of restoring items to areas historically targeted by looters, marking a significant achievement in the fight against antiquities trafficking.
"I am proud that this is the second repatriation we have had with Peru under my administration," District Attorney Alvin Bragg said at a 15 May ceremony at the Peruvian consulate.
Many of the objects being repatriated today are from areas of Peru that have been repeatedly targeted by looters, but today we were able to undo some of the harm they have caused.
Among the pieces turned over to Peruvian authorities is a striking Chavín ceramic effigy bottle, molded in the shape of a man's head, dating from between 1000BC and 700BC.
The gilded copper mask may depict the god Aiapæc, with visual features that warded off evil, showcasing the advanced metalworking technology of the Moche artisans.
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